A local realtor is hoping to capitalize on the convoy of motorhomes that arrives each year for the annual Southeast Area Family Motor Coach Association (FMCA) Rally at the Hernando County Airport in Brooksville, Fla.

According to a report in Hernando Today, many of those RVers travel south to escape the snow and cold of northern states and enjoy – if only for a little while – the charms and weather of the area.

Realtor Gary Schraut would like them to stay on after the rally and is hoping his proposed RV park east of the city will entice many to think about putting more permanent roots down.

He recently got rezoning approval to develop a 129-acre parcel on the north side of State Road 50 for a mix of RV sites and single-family homes. Schraut, chairman of the Hernando County Aviation Authority, said he is seeking a developer to make his dream come true.

“We feel that with so many people coming here for the rally already, we think people will want to live here,” Schraut said.

When finished, Schraut envisions an RV park with 350 landscaped spots with utility hook-ups suitable for Class A motor coaches to stay for the short- or long-term. In addition, there will be 49 single-family homes with 50-foot garages to house a motor coach.

Schraut said the proximity to Interstate 75 should be an added incentive for RVers, who want to get on the road fast when the wanderlust strikes.

This will be the 15th year for the annual FMCA rally. From Feb. 1-5, thousands of RVers will park their motor coaches along a converted runway. In its place, a mini city will be erected, complete with vendors and places spotlighting the latest RV models.

Fellow enthusiasts will exchange road adventures and maybe pick up a good bargain or two inside the tents. If past rallies are any indication, these road warriors could pump in $10 million or more into the local economy.

Many RVers leave the airport and visit local merchants and tourist spots, such as Weeki Wachee Springs. Airport Manager Don Silvernell said the rally is a tremendous boost to the local economy. While here, rally-goers spend money in local gas stations, stores and eateries, he said.